The car is equipped with a five-speed gearbox, a transfer case with a demultiplier and a lockable center differential.
Operate the gearbox according to the shift diagram printed on the handle of its lever.
Warning
Engage reverse gear only when the vehicle is completely stopped.
When choosing transfer case modes, consider the operating conditions of the vehicle. The following modes can be selected with the lever:
I–high gear engaged, differential unlocked;
II - neutral position;
III – low gear engaged, differential unlocked;
IV - the highest gear is engaged, the differential is locked;
V-neutral position;
VI - low gear engaged, differential locked.
You can change gears in the transfer case from low to high on the move. At the same time, to shift gears, use the double clutch actuation.
Warning
Engage the low gear in the transfer case only after the vehicle has come to a complete stop or at low speed (1–5 km/h).
To overcome steep grades, when driving on soft ground, and to obtain a stable minimum speed when driving on paved roads, first engage a low gear in the transfer case.
To overcome difficult road sections, lock the center differential by switching the lever to the appropriate position.
Warning
Engaging the center differential lock while driving at high speeds is unacceptable, as this can lead to dangerous skidding of the car.
It is advisable to block the differential on a slippery surface, for which you need to stop the car and drive about 1 m in the opposite direction, or allow partial wheel slip. On hard pavement, drive in a curved path of about 1 m, disengage the clutch and engage the differential lock.
Warnings
To avoid transmission damage:
– avoid switching with slipping wheels;
– if the differential lock is difficult, do not apply excessive force, for a clear engagement of the lock, repeat the lock procedure;
– after overcoming difficult terrain, be sure to immediately unlock the center differential – driving a car at high speed on good roads with a locked differential is accompanied by a deterioration in vehicle handling, reduces the life of transmission mechanisms, increases fuel consumption and tire wear, and when braking can lead to a skid of the car.
Helpful advice
If it is difficult to unlock the differential when the vehicle is stationary, do it in a straight line in the opposite direction.
The Niva car belongs to the family of SUVs with permanently connected all-wheel drive and manual control of differential locks.
Purpose and principle of operation of the differential
The differential is a mechanical device in the form of a set of planetary gears and shafts. It provides automatic distribution of torque from the engine to the drive wheels mounted on the same axle. This allows the drive wheels to rotate at different speeds, which is especially important when the car is turning, when the inner wheel passes a smaller radius than the outer one. The absence of a differential in such a situation leads to slipping of one of the wheels, causing the car to skid, increasing the load on the transmission and increasing tire wear.
During rectilinear motion of a car at a constant speed, the total thrust from the engine is distributed evenly, as a result of which both drive wheels rotate at the same speed. When one of the wheels slips, the differential automatically redistributes the traction force from the engine, increasing it on the slipping wheel and decreasing it on the other.
Conventional vehicles have one differential mounted in the front or rear drive axle. There are three installed on the Niva:
- front and rear axles (cross-wheel), which ensure the rotation of the driving wheels on the same axle at different speeds when one of them slips;
- central (interaxle), distributing torque from the engine between the front and rear axles.
blocking
All modern SUVs with permanently connected all-wheel drive have the ability to turn on the differential lock, which improves the vehicle's off-road capability.
When the differential is working and one of the wheels is slipping due to poor road conditions, the main traction force from the engine is transferred to this wheel. On the remaining wheels, the traction force is sharply reduced, as a result of which the car can be completely immobilized. For example, if we raise one wheel on a jack, all the rotational energy will be transferred to it. As a result, only it will spin.
The purpose of engaging the lock is to link the drive wheels together for their inseparable rotation. This allows all wheels to make maximum use of the tractive effort transmitted from the engine.
To do this, there is a locking mechanism that prevents the differential gears from rotating by blocking them with a special locking clutch. When locking the cross-axle differential, the two drive wheels are rigidly connected to each other, which ensures their constant rotation with the same number of revolutions. When locking the center differential, the drive shafts of the front and rear drive axles are rigidly connected to each other, transmitting the same torque to both axles.
As a result, on a Niva car, the differential lock stops equalizing the force between the wheels and each of them receives the maximum possible torque, determined by the adhesion force of each wheel to the ground. The better the grip, the more traction it will receive.
Control
In the interior of Niva SUVs, in addition to the usual gearshift lever, a transfer case has been added, which is a two-stage gearbox with two control levers.
One of the levers provides the inclusion of high or low gear from the gearbox to the drive axles.
The second lever, with a short handle, is used to control the differential lock. It has two fixed positions: in the front end position, the lock is disabled, in the rear end position, it is on.
Features of the application on the Niva
- when driving on paved roads, the differential lock must be disabled;
- on steep slopes and soft soils, a reduced range of gears should be included on the RK;
- when overcoming difficult terrain, you should turn on the blocking in advance;
- it is necessary to switch the RK to a lower range of gears only after a complete stop of the car;
- you can switch to a lower gear and turn on the lock when the car is moving at any speed, after disengaging the clutch;
- for normal operation of the lock drive, it is recommended to periodically (once a week) switch the lever to the RC, especially in winter.
To date, the forced manual locking mechanism on all-wheel drive vehicles is considered the most effective. Its correct and timely use allows the car to successfully overcome difficult terrain and feel confident in Russian off-road conditions.
Quite often it happens that a motorist cannot turn on the wheel lock on the Niva from the 1st time, which is quite serviceable. Immediately you need to mention that everything is in perfect order with the mechanism for blocking the wheels of the car. Why does it happen that a working mechanism cannot be turned on the first time? The fact is that the introduction of a blocking mechanism requires some skill and certain knowledge. So, within the framework of this article, which will certainly intrigue the owners of the Niva, we will tell you how to turn on the lock on this car.
In essence, the mechanisms for engaging the gear and locking the wheels of the car are actually similar processes. However, their mechanisms differ radically. As it should, the inclusion of blocking the wheels of the car at the time of parking is a completely useless task. After all, the teeth and grooves on the blocking clutch quite coincide very, very occasionally. In other words, the lock is not engaged in a stationary car due to the fact that the teeth of the clutch, being opposite the teeth of the crown, simply abut against them, in other words, the clutch obviously cannot turn.
So, if you still managed to turn on the lock when the car is standing, then you, apparently, are lucky or lucky. Such coincidences happen, as they say, one in a million. To turn on the gear, the clutch is activated, the slightest pressure on which leads to the fact that the tooth of the rotating shaft easily enters the groove, which is completely immobile. And in the mechanism of blocking the wheels of a car, the clutch and the output shaft, which has a ring gear, are very firmly connected together with the help of satellites.
Therefore, to turn on the wheel lock on the Niva car, you first need to start and warm up the engine well. Then you need to turn on the first gear and start driving. Rectilinear movement on a normal hard surface, for example, on asphalt, will not bring wheel locks on. This event is caused by the fact that both the rear and front wheels make the same distance, in no way forcing the satellites to spin.
Therefore, it is necessary to continue driving at low speed, starting to turn the steering wheel of the car left and right and at the same time leaning on the handle, which turns on the wheel lock. In this case, the rear and front wheels of the car pass an unequal path. And this, in turn, will force the satellites to spin. It must be recalled that the output shaft is connected to the clutch through satellites. In this way, the output shaft will rotate in relation to the coupling, and the tooth will effortlessly enter its own groove. Only in this case, the blocking of the wheels of the Niva car will turn on.
To turn off the wheel lock on the Niva, as, in general, and to turn it on, you need to perform a number of specific actions. The following should be taken into account: movement with the lock turned on leads to the fact that the teeth of the output shaft are compressed quite tightly in the coupling. This is due to the fact that the wheels of the car are spinning out of sync. Thus, the driver is faced with the task of greatly weakening the compression of the teeth in the grooves. To do this, shake the steering wheel and engage reverse gear. Add to this a little bit of patience, the handle will certainly give in and the car's wheel lock will turn off!
So, within the framework of this material, we talked about how to enable blocking on the Niva. The competent advice given in this article, the development of these tips specifically in practice, and certain driving abilities will allow you to turn on the lock without effort, bringing this skill to full automatism! Have a good and safe journey!
Probably every owner of domestic, and even imported, SUVs has ever dreamed of improving the cross-country ability of his unit. And most motorists do not even need to overcome deep ruts, swamps, climb steep hills. Patency is increased, so as not to just get stuck out of the blue. The installed lock on the Niva will help improve off-road performance. Consider what they are, the principle of operation, cons and advantages.
Differential functions
Even at the beginning of the automotive era, designers and engineers empirically found out that a solid axle for two wheels is by no means useful. The machine on a straight path is practically not used. Each tire will go its own way. Tires wore out quickly, and the car did not want to turn. This prompted the engineers to search for the optimal solution. They thought - and yet came up with.
So, the axle was divided into two axle shafts, and a differential was installed between them. This allowed the wheels to rotate at the same speed in a straight line, and at different speeds in corners. But the coverage is not always completely uniform. For example, under one of the wheels lies a stone, under the other - sand. Therefore, one wheel will rotate more easily. This is what a differential is for. The wheel that is harder to turn, he does not turn. So the engineers learned about the slip effect. Even all-wheel drive could not solve this problem. To completely eliminate slippage, a blockage was created. Unfortunately, they don’t put it on the Niva. But it is very necessary, so car owners purchase and install these mechanisms separately.
Types of blocking
It can be either forced or automatic. In the case of a forced one, the driver himself turns it on. The automatic lock installed on the Niva works with the help of special self-locking mechanisms.
Types of forced system
Often in this case, cam clutches are used. With their help, it is possible to ensure maximum rigidity of the connection between the housing and the axle shaft. Cam clutches are closed and opened by moving the lever in the passenger compartment. In a mechanical drive, a cable and a lever are combined, or the Forced lock, installed on the Niva, is activated by the driver by moving the lever. In this case, the car must be stationary.
As an actuating element of the drive, it is used. In another case, the clutch is closed using an electric drive. Forced blocking, installed on the Niva, is activated in this case by pressing a button. Rigid fixation is used to overcome especially difficult areas. After passing them, it will definitely turn off.
Self-locking differentials
These mechanisms are a compromise between hard locking and freewheel differential operation. So, on the basis of such systems, you can use both. In the first case, a viscous clutch or disc differential will be used, and in the second, a worm gear will be used.
Viscous coupling
This lock on the "Niva" is a set of perforated discs. One part of these elements is connected to the differential housing, and the second part is connected to the drive shaft. The discs are in a sealed case, which is filled with a special high-viscosity fluid.
When the speeds of rotation of the differential case and drive belt match, the unit works as one. If the speed of the drive shaft increases, then the disks connected to it also rotate faster, and fluid moves with them. It gets harder and eventually the differential locks up.
Since the dimensions of the coupling are quite large, it is often used in center differentials. Due to its design, it can get hot. When the driver engages the clutch, it can conflict with the ABS, which is why almost no one uses it today.
Worm gear self-locking differentials
This system provides automatic blocking. Operation depends on the difference in torque between the housing and the drive shaft. If a wheel slips and torque drops, the worm gear differential will lock up and torque will be redirected to any free wheel. These designs are more popular. Some of the most famous are Torsen and Quaife.
These designs are planetary gearboxes, which consist of driven and driving worm gears. Such mechanisms are inter-wheel and inter-axle.
Popular systems
A motorist acquires a Niva without blocking, and this is a serious minus. There is only a lock in the car. But this is not enough for true lovers of mud and swamps. What is available to connoisseurs of off-road?
Val-racing
The company has been manufacturing products since 2005. Forced cross-wheel locks of this brand are known and loved by many. For the Niva, the manufacturer offers a complete blocking of the front axle. It is equipped with an electric drive. Screw self-locking interlocks ("Niva") are also offered. Reviews about them are mostly positive. The device works, and its reliability is quite high. You can use these blocks for any type of terrain - it can be swamps, forests, and so on. These mechanisms are great for off-road and for everyday driving in difficult areas.
Differential automatic Krasikov (DAK)
V. N. Krasikov first produced the first system in 2002. This lock was patented in 2004. This unique development is the future of self-locking differentials. This is a mechanical system with the possibility of automatic fixation.
The process is carried out by changing the drive wheels. This makes it possible to operate the mechanism very softly and as stable as possible in any speed range. The design allows the use of the differential not only on Niva SUVs, but also on any other models. The device combines the qualities and functions of a conventional differential. In addition, a significant drawback has been removed here when the car is slipping with one of the wheels.
Overall dimensions of this mechanism practically do not differ from classical systems. You can replace them however you like. Car owners claim that there is no more efficient design. This is a worthy choice that can reveal all the abilities of the Niva.
How does blocking work on Niva (DAK)
This automatic differential can be used on all roads and off roads. The range of possible speeds and loads is very wide. When the vehicle is moving and the engine thrust is not higher than the traction of a weak wheel, the differential will not be locked. If the thrust exceeds the characteristics of the clutch, there will be an automatic fixation. In this case, the "weak" wheel will not rotate.
Varieties of DAK
DAK is used only for off-road use. DAK-7 is designed for a more sporty ride. But DAK-5 is a universal device that allows you to drive a car even through the most inaccessible places. The installation of a lock on the Niva is carried out on the front axle. The mechanism allows you to significantly increase maneuverability and stability in how many conditions.
DAK-7 is a lock with medium hardness. Install this system in the bridge, which is connected either in slippery conditions or off-road. DAK-5 is softer, and is chosen for bridges that are constantly on.
This system is ideal for those vehicles that are used primarily on hard surfaces. DAK-5 has a wider range of forces, under the influence of which it is unlocked. The resource of this device is higher in comparison with other models.
"Izh-techno"
The IZH-techno lock on the Niva is a fairly simple and more reliable design. The mechanism consists of two semi-axial and spacer clutches. Also included are springs and pins.
Often this system is constantly closed, and as a differential it works only when at least one wheel rotates faster than the drive one. Locking occurs due to the effect of engine torque and rolling resistance force. Such a device will work as a differential only if external forces act on the wheel. In slippery conditions, this lock will lock in and transfer torque to all wheels on the axle.
DAN blocking on Niva
DAN is Nesterov's automatic differential. You can install it both on the Niva from the Volga Automobile Plant, and on the Chevrolet Niva. This lock will increase handling in poor road conditions and improve cornering maneuverability. The system also greatly contributes to the vehicle's directional stability when overtaking. Nesterov's differential is able to increase acceleration dynamics even in winter. This device will not get stuck either in the sand, or in the snow, or in the mud and swamps. It can be completely safely used both in the city and on the highway, and the rubber will not deteriorate.
For whom?
This automatic differential is recommended for novice drivers. The design will add confidence to a person in difficult conditions. You can move very calmly where slippage is possible. DAN also eliminates skidding when cornering or braking.
It is also an indispensable option for those who prefer to lead an active lifestyle. The device is relevant for lovers of fishing, hunters, car tourists. For participants in trophy raids, it is a great opportunity to get a prize.
Advantages of DAN
Among the advantages is safety, as the lock greatly improves handling even in the most difficult conditions. Durability is also declared - only modern materials are used in production. For the manufacture of systems, the most modern high-tech equipment is used. It should be noted that DAN is economical.
Homemade systems
Do-it-yourself blocking on the Niva is done quite often. And this is not uncommon today. Craftsmen develop and implement unique designs in metal. Also, many people make copies of Lockwright and self-locking systems in garages. Often the differential is simply welded on.
Most of the solutions are special bushings with springs, and the design resembles a preload. In work, they are no worse than industrial products. But it's still not worth driving into serious off-road.
How is blocking on the Niva done by hand? This is quite realistic, especially if you know how much products of popular brands cost. If you have access to lathes, then there is no difficulty in making such a mechanism.
Usage
Novice drivers may encounter problems using the systems. There are many questions about how to enable blocking on Niva. Sometimes the mechanism simply does not turn on the first time. Even fully serviceable systems sin with this. Why does this happen? The thing is that working with this mechanism requires certain knowledge and skills from the driver. In general, enabling transfer and blocking is one process. The mechanisms are completely different.
If the car is stationary and the driver tries to lock the differential, this will not lead to anything. The grooves and teeth of the blocking clutch do not match at the moment of parking. In this case, the teeth of the coupling can be located opposite the elements of the crown. The clutch just won't turn. If it was possible to start the lock on a stationary machine, then this can only happen by a lucky chance.
To shift into gear, you must use the clutch. Without this action, the system will not work. Even light pressure on the clutch will cause the shaft tooth to go into its groove. Blocking has a different mechanism. There is a clutch and an output shaft. The latter is equipped with a special ring gear. And both elements are closely interconnected with the help of satellites.
To enable the lock on the Niva, the first thing they do is warm up the engine, turn on the first gear and start moving. Driving in a straight line and on a hard road surface will not allow the lock to be engaged. Why is that? This is due to the fact that both the rear and front wheels cover the same distance.
To activate the wheel lock system, you must drive at low speed and maneuver to the right or left. You should also press the handle, which is responsible for turning on the lock on the Niva. The rear and front wheels will travel a different path, and the tooth will be able to enter its groove. This is the only way to turn on the system. The principle of this process is the same regardless of what kind of lock on the Niva is installed and currently in use.
Chevrolet Niva - is there a difference?
It's also an off-road vehicle, and blocking applies here too. The principle of operation as a whole is no different from the operation of the mechanisms on the Niva from the Volga Automobile Plant. As for manufacturers, many of those who make locks for the Niva offer models for this car as well.
When to use the system
Chevrolet Niva is a unique car that is equipped with this system. It is used if it is necessary to overcome a difficult area. In this case, the blocking on the Chevrolet Niva must be enabled in advance. Also this option will be useful in the mountains. It is also indispensable in case of slipping on sandy roads, snow or slippery surfaces.
On hard surfaces, the need for blocking is eliminated. The wheels often have good grip and even torque.
Terms of Use
It is necessary to switch the transfer case to a lower row only when the car has completely stopped. The lock is turned on (including on the Chevrolet Niva) in the process of movement. You can jump on without stopping the car. To ensure the normal operation of the locking mechanism, it is necessary to switch the differential on the transfer case from time to time. This is especially true in winter.
How to turn on the lock on the Chevrolet Niva
It is activated by a lever on the transfer case. If you move the lever back and forth, then in this way a reduced range of gears is switched on. By moving the lever to the right and left, the lock is turned on and off. The lever handle is short. Left position - differential locked, right - unlocked.
So, we found out what a forced lock is and how to install it on a domestic VAZ Niva and Chevrolet Niva car. A little patience - and everything will work out!
